Constitution

Constitutions are vital to the long-term success of an organization because they provide structure and continuity from one year to the next. A constitution establishes why the organization exists and contains rules that are rarely changed. If you take the time to write a clear and concise constitution that addresses the important questions about your organization, you will save yourself and your group time and energy in the long run.

Either a constitution or the answers to some basic questions are required when you register an organization.

Article 1 – Name
The name of this organization shall be the _______________ of Northern Michigan University.

Article II – Purpose
The purpose of the club shall be: (a) to foster broad student interest and participation in activities by providing leadership, programs, and service; and (b) to assist students in developing skills and leadership abilities.

Article III - Membership
Section 1 – Any student regularly enrolled at Northern Michigan University may become a member of the ________ organization with voting and office-holding privileges. The standards for qualification and the amount of dues to be paid shall be determined by the organization.

Article V – Duties of Executive Officers
Chairperson – To preside at Executive Committee membership meetings and general membership meetings; appoint special committees with the approval of the Executive Board; present an annual report; and perform other such duties as may be required by the bylaws or resolutions of the Executive Committee.

Vice-Chairperson – To preside in Chairperson’s absence and perform other such duties as may be required by the bylaws or resolutions of the Executive Committee. Plan and organize publicity for activities and special events.

Secretary – To attend to all general correspondence of the organization and to keep minutes of all Executive Committee and Membership meetings and to preserve the records of the organization. He/she will also perform other such duties as may be required by the bylaws or resolutions of the Executive Committee.

Treasurer – Supervise the financial administration of all revenue, periodically report to the Executive Committee and membership on the financial condition of the organization, and perform other such duties as may be required by the bylaws or resolutions of the Executive Committee.

Article VI – Elections
Election of officers shall take place during _______________________________. The Executive Committee shall appoint a nominating committee consisting of students (preferably older members selected from the membership); the outgoing chairperson, ex-officio, shall serve as Chairperson of the Committee. They also may serve again, if elected. Any student member is eligible for nomination as an officer of the Executive Committee who fulfills the qualifications as set up by the Executive Committee.

Article VII – Amendments
Amendments to the Constitution may be proposed to the voting membership by majority vote of the Executive Committee or by petitions signed by 1/10 of the voting membership. Amendments shall be declared adopted which are presented at two general meetings to receive a majority-favorable vote at both meetings by the voting membership.